Wend through Herefordshire’s patchwork countryside to find Hollyhocks nestled on the banks of the river Arrow in the fairy-tale village of Eardisland. With its Tudor timber-frame exterior, chalky vintage style and polished parquet floor dating back to the Roaring 20s, this luxury self-catering cottage is one charmingly curious treasure.

Introduction

The old-world village of Eardisland in which Hollyhocks resides is widely considered the prettiest in the whole of Herefordshire. Steeped in history, this luxury self-catering cottage was built before the last battle of The War of The Roses in 1461 and is believed to be the last resting place for Henry VI's knights - their red rose paintings still displayed in the dining room today. The 1920s saw The Twinings Tea family take ownership of the house following a fire in the great hall during Victorian times; they laid the parquet floor for their daughter’s wedding and it doesn’t take much to conjure up visions of guests dancing the night away in beaded flapper dresses, cream tuxedos and fedora hats.

Bedrooms and Bathrooms

On the ground floor sits a king-size double bedroom along with a separate shower room and WC. Accessed via a quintessentially steep cottage staircase (which may not be suitable for the less able), the master bedroom has a super king-size bed and leads through to the twin room. Across the landing sits the family bathroom with WC and cast iron rolltop bath– perfect for indulgent soaks following the day's country frolics.

Outside

The raised lawn was designed so that parents can happily supervise children playing from the comfort of the sumptuous interiors. Venture across the road from the cottage to discover your extended garden which occupies an exclusive spot along the river. If you hear a little squeal from the garden shed, it will probably be the collection of linen deck chairs, cushions and lawn games crying to put to use on those balmy English summer days. The owners also grant fishing rights for professional fisherfolk, who just need to show their licences to the friendly housekeeper next door. Whittle away afternoons picnicking on dainty sandwiches and playing Pooh Sticks on the riverbank.

For Relaxation

Chic, designer household items make country living a breeze at Hollyhocks. Pour a Nespresso coffee to enjoy with some artisan bread from the community-run local shop and devour with lashings of Damson jam within the enchanted garden setting. Spend afternoons nosing the shelves of Hay-on-Wye’s famous old bookshops or ogling at the gorgeous homeware on offer at Bailey’s in Ross-on-Wye. With little ones cosied-up in the snug, grown-ups will love to spend evenings basking in the warmth of the crackling open fire in the old great hall, or plugging some jazz into the Harman-Kardon speakers to enjoy some Great Gatsby-style revelry.

Practicalities

There is parking for three cars. Children should be supervised by the river. The vintage-industrial style kitchen features a Range cooker, microwave, dishwasher, washing machine and two fridge-freezers.

AROUND THE PROPERTY

Style: Taking inspiration from his Grandmother (the former owner)’s life overseas, the owner gave the traditional cottage interiors a subtle flavour of India, with beautiful handcrafted pieces.

EXPLORE. DREAM. DISCOVER.

Our Take

Property Owners Danielle & Alex say

Hollyhocks is set in an idyllic location on the banks of the river Arrow that meanders through Eardisland, one of the most picturesque villages in the UK. We had our own wedding reception in the great hall and it holds a truly magical place in our hearts.

Unique Extras

From professional in-house chefs to luxury at-home spa therapists and wine delivered to the door, see what’s on offer for your bespoke escape.

Out & About

Discover places to see and things to do whilst in and around Eardisland, Herefordshire to truly enhance your stay come rain or shine!

The Riverside Inn Recommended by the owners, this traditional, 16th Century dog-friendly pub is set deep in the heart of the Herefordshire countryside, serving up mouth-watering home-grown food sourced from its own kitchen garden. Authentic and atmospheric, food at this quintessential country inn will appease the most discerning of guests.

Berrington Hall Escape with the family to this neo-classical mansion nestled in verdant landscaped gardens and flaunting elegant interiors. Spot fish in the 14-acre private lake, stroll along the Georgian pathways and relish in one of Hereford's famous orchards. Here you can also take to the skies on a hot air balloon ride and enjoy the sights of the Brecon Beacons and winding River Wye from the air.

Hay-On-Wye Head to nearby Hay-On-Wye to nose the shelves of the town's famous old bookshops and sweep through compelling reads tucked away in the nooks of this charming book-selling terrain. From Biography and Law to Pets and Philosophy, you can discover rare volumes, timeless texts and special editions of all sorts in the three stories of Richard Booth’s – where you can also refuel on good coffee and delicious cake.

Small Breeds Farm Park and Owl Centre Home to one of the finest collections of owls in Europe, Small Breeds Farm and Owl Centre wraps up tiny bundles of the world’s cutest animals to delight little ones and grown-ups too! Pack a picnic for a family day out and spend time in the company of miniature (and sometimes mischievous) animals as they reside in their snug Herefordshire homes.

FOOD AND DRINK

Home-Cooked

Ludlow Food Centre has been voted Britain’s Best Farm Shop by FARMA and is the place to go for a taste of the region. The food hall is surrounded by glass-fronted production kitchens so you can see the food being made as you shop. Armed with paper bags of local fodder, Hollyhocks has all the mod cons for whipping up a feast.

In-House Cuisine

If you'd rather spend your self-catering break indulging in the little luxuries, let an in-house chef prepare a mouth-watering meal for you and your party (on prior request and subject to an additional cost).

Eating Out

The Stagg in Titley Kington made history in 2001 as the first pub in Britain to earn a Michelin star – well worth a trip serving high quality seasonal food in relaxed surroundings. The Walnut Tree in Abergavenney is a must for foodies and for something a little alternative, try St John’s Place in Hay-On-Wye (only open two nights a week) where the complexity of the delicious food is offset by the simple elegance of the decor.

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Disclaimer: These particulars, whilst believed to be accurate, are set as a guideline only. They are intended to give a fair description, but should not be relied upon as being a statement of fact. The photographs appearing on this website show only certain parts and aspects of the property at the time when the photographs were taken and it should not be assumed that the property remains precisely as displayed in the photographs. If there are any points of particular importance that need clarifying before you confirm your booking please do not hesitate to ask.

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